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Meatloaf with Brown Gravy

Shruthi
A classic homestyle dish featuring tender baked meatloaf smothered in rich brown gravy. Perfect for family dinners, it is hearty, flavourful, and satisfying.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Brown Gravy

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease a loaf pan.
  • Mix ingredients:
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined (do not overmix).
  • Shape the loaf:
    Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and shape into a loaf about 8x4 inches.
  • Bake:
    Place in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Rest:
    Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to hold shape.

Brown Gravy

  • Make roux:
    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
  • Add broth:
    Slowly whisk in beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
  • Season:
    Add Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until gravy thickens (about 5 minutes).
  • Serve:
    Slice meatloaf and spoon warm brown gravy generously over the top.

Notes

  • Ground beef with 80/20 fat ratio makes the juiciest meatloaf.
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep it from falling apart.
  • Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of dry for better texture.
  • Adding Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami flavour.
  • Homemade gravy tastes richer but store-bought can save time.
Keyword Belgian comfort food, brown gravy, classic dinner, Easy Meatloaf Recipe, homestyle cooking